(In the tongue of the Orcs)

Athgar and Kargen entered the palisade followed by the hunting party. The Orcs of Ord-Kurgad rushed forth to take the game from their arms, freeing up the hunters to greet their loved ones.

Shaluhk waited until the crowd dispersed before stepping forward, hugging Athgar, and then turning to embrace Kargen tightly.

Athgar looked at Kargen's bondmate. "How much longer until you deliver?" he asked. "I'd swear you're not even twelve weeks along."

"A few more weeks yet," she said, with a grin, "and then we shall have small green feet running around our hut."

"That soon?" asked Athgar.

"Soon?" said Kargen. "Why would you say that? Few Orc's carry their young for more than five months."

"Human's take nine," explained Athgar, "or so I'm led to believe."

"Such a long time," observed Shaluhk, "I do not know how they bear it." She rubbed her belly, "This mighty hunter wants out as soon as possible."

"How long till a Human matures?" asked Kargen.

"Individuals differ," said Athgar, "but we reckon most will mature between sixteen and twenty years. Why? When do Orcs mature?"

"They are fully formed by fourteen," said Shaluhk.

"Yes," agreed Kargen, "though they often toughen up more as they age, becoming stronger with each successive hunt. Even I was not born with these muscles."

"I hope our son has muscles like you," added Shaluhk.

"How do you know it won't be a female?" asked Athgar.

"We do not," she replied, "but it matters not. Apart from carrying young, there is little difference between males and females in our society. Was it not so with your people, Athgar?"

"To a certain extent," he replied, "both could hunt or fight. In fact, we underwent the same rite of passage to adulthood."

"Oh yes, I remember now," said Kargen, "we had to help you get your first kill on a hunt."

Athgar blushed, for it was true. If it hadn't been for Kargen and Laruhk, he might still be an un-blooded Therengian.

"Stop teasing him," said Shaluhk, "you know that it was not his fault."

"It is true," Kargen replied, "he is blameless in this. Now, let us retire to our hut, I have need to feel our little hunter kick again. Will you join us, Athgar?"

"Yes," added Shaluhk, "please do, you know you are always welcome."

"Thank you for the offer," said Athgar, "but I'm very tired. I haven't the stamina of your race, and the hunt was a long one."

"Indeed," remarked Kargen, "it was a hunt that shall be spoken of for years. Now come, my little shamaness, and let us retire to our hut." He placed his arm around Shaluhk's shoulder and led her off towards their home.